Chris Hastings is one of 16 speakers at the March 1 TEDxBirmingham conference. The event, which features talks by local artists, activists, teachers and entrepreneurs, is a local offshoot of the internationally known series of events presented by the non-profit organization TED (Technology, Entertainment, Design).

Name: Chris Hastings

Age: 51

Profession: Chef and owner of Hot and Hot Fish Club

Residence: Mountain Brook

What is your greatest professional accomplishment?

Winning the James Beard Foundation Award for best chef in the South in 2012.

How have you and your restaurant and staff impacted Birmingham?

For 18 years now, we have been on the forefront of the food of place, food of season and the sustainability movement. I can say with confidence it has become the "ethos" of the Birmingham food movement, which has gained national attention for its commitment to that ideology and to quality.

What is your vision for the future of Birmingham's culinary scene?

The future is very bright for the food scene here in Birmingham. I see more and more young people graduating from the great kitchens/restaurants and opening diverse, interesting under-represented food cultures and styles. It is a very exciting time for consumers.